Table of Contents

Vonaijyaon (Society)

The Poku Saeruo Degonjo are not a dying race, but rather a race who have survived a devastating loss, and have reshaped their culture. The Vonaijyaon people rules are the foundation of the Poku'vonai society.

Childhood

0 - 4

A Poku'vonai baqli (child) stays with its Pialoi (mother) until weaned, about six luai (months) During this time the Pialoi remains on World Station. The first four years of a baqli are spent with family. These early formative years the baqli learns basic social etiquette, and language. Baqlii (children) are encouraged to be curious and inquisitive. Trips away from the ruo (home) are often both educational and recreational.

5 - 15

At age 5 the young Poku'vonai's life changes. They begin formal education at the Ruohui Giba'te (Academies). A regimen of meditation, physical fitness, classroom sessions, social and team activities as well as unarmed and armed combat training. Students spend about nine hours a day at Academy. All academies are co-ed, with Poku'vonai of both sexes receiving the same training.

During the 14th and 15th year of their life a Poku'vonai will participate in 3-4 Kâbo'kai Ojme (Internship). These last 3 luai (months) and are spent exploring various occupations. Students are free to explore occupations in other sects as well.

Adulthood

The Baqnor (move from youth) marks the start of adulthood. The typical Poku'vonai seeks out a position/occupation within their chosen sect. They spend their first several years of service seeking to earn distinction. This is important when the young Poku'vonai's mind turns to romance.

Marriage

Poku'vonai normally do not get married until their mid-twenties. This give them approximately ten years to establish themselves, and find a mate. While rare it is not unheard of for Major Houses to arrange a marriage between influential families. The ritual for is called Sumanâpa Punla (Making Family).

Sexual Behavior

Poku'vonai become sexually mature between 16-17 years of age. Poku'vonai young adults are placed on anti-conception drugs to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Creating a child is an important responsibility, and typically does not happen outside of wedlock. In fact unbound couples will normally get 'married' to avoid any stigma. Generally as a people the Poku'vonai are open minded about sex between bonded members or even unbound mature individuals.

In a culture were population control was a common factor same sex pairings are accepted as a normal option within the clan.

Recreation

Like all sentient beings the Poku'vonai have a need for recreation. The forms available vary depending upon the location the individual is at. Obviously those at Sotâka Ruomâqi (World Station) have more options. The following are some of the common forms of recreation.

Sports

Conquer the Field - basically a variant of capture the flag. Three teams of eight take the field and are armed with Pugil sticks. Only one member is allowed to stay near the flag, the flag keeper obviously defend the flag against challengers, but also is the only member on the team who can move the flag. He must plant the flag before fighting. The playing field is octagonal 50 meters across and has a number 6-8 typically, of rises where the flag can be planted. The taking the keeper out while he is moving the flag causes that team to lose. Members of a team can defend their flag in the event the keeper is taken out while the flag is planted.

Maze War - six teams of three enter a large maze armed with a 'bean bag' gun. Each player has three shots initially but can gain more from recharging stations, or taking them from a fallen opponent. Strategy and cunning play decisive factors in these competitions.

Games

Hatakur'a Jujal (Hunter Prey) - Is a strategy board game, the object is to capture your opponents pieces by position three of yours along side of it.

Cards

The members of the Poku Saeruo Degonjo enjoy a variety of card games, some are for solitary play, others for group, with and without gambling.

Dancing

Dancing for the Poku'vonai is almost an athletic event and is done to Trance music. Poku'vonai give themselves over to the music and dance until they need to rest. This activity is common with all age groups, but establishments usually are created for a target audience.

Art & Literature

The Poku'vonai have an extensive collection of Art and Literature. In fact all members of the culture are exposed to these things during their education. They are also encouraged to explore a form of these. Many members of the hunts are noted artists within the clan.

Poku

Prior to the Norka (The Exodus), the Poku'vonai had many Poku or clans, which presented some unique aspect of their life, it could be where they lived, or the predominant means of making a living. They retain this concept but in a different form, the former Poku are now the Jaeli (Sects).

Sou

Sou or death is not something that Poku'vonai fear. They accept that death is inevitable, but that does not mean that they do not want to postpone it as long as possible. Most Poku'vonai accept that they may have to die for House or Clan, it is preferred to make ones enemy die for theirs.

Souibâ

The Souibâ or bright death. Literally means that the individual died well, and with a purpose. Individuals who have been killed killed in battle while fighting bravely, or sacrificing themselves in combat for the good of the people. Poku'vonai who die of old age after a successful career of service also fall into this category. Lastly persons who perform the Sou Fofi (Cleansing Death) ritual are considered to have died well.

Souâbi

The Souâbi or dark death. This refers to dying badly. It could mean that the person's death had no meaning, or that the individual died in cowardice or disgrace. Individuals who have experienced a Souâbi are seldom spoken off by members outside of the family. Family members typically will go to the temple to intercede on the person's behalf.